Comment: When God sends Samuel to anoint a new king, Samuel is surprised by God’s choice. David is the youngest of Jesse’s sons, so insignificant he wasn’t even included in the brothers’ line-up for king. In A Small Surprise, a small rabbit applies for a job at the Magnificent Menagerie despite the fact small animals are NOT encouraged to apply. David and Rabbit do not fit their job descriptions based our earthly expectations, and yet they are the ones for the job. When you read this text and story, invite your congregants to share their own experiences of being surprised by the unexpected ways God has called them to participate in God’s work in the world.

The Year 4 Narrative Lectionary Links are written by regular contributor Noell Rathbun.